Mud Lake Conservation Area

Top: A panoramic view of Mud Lake. Notice the diverse vegetation and calm, undisturbed water. Bottom left: The sun shining through the trees onto the trail at Mud Lake, giving a picturesque view of the trees and shrubbery along the trail. Bottom middle: This is a close up shot of a dragonfly as it rests on a low lying leaf. The wings are almost completely transparent, allowing its body to camouflage almost perfectly. Bottom right: A fallen tree across the stream running through Mud Lake Conservation Area. (Photos: Samantha Stea)

GENERAL INFORMATION

Mud Lake Conservation Area offers visitors unique bird watching, fishing and hunting opportunities. There are 3 duck blinds located on the Eastern shore of the lake that provide a hidden and covered area for visitor use. These blinds are accessible by canoe. Guidelines for fishing and hunting can be found at http://www.npca.ca/wp-content/uploads/NPCA-Hunting-and-Angling.pdf

Mud Lake Conservation Area is a man made area dedicated to the preservation and biodiversity of vegetation and wildlife. The area has three different trails which range from 20mins to over an hour in length that all begin at the parking lot on Elm Street. Migratory birds frequently stop at Mud Lake for rest and food, making the area a great place for nature lovers, bird watchers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Visitors to Mud Lake Conservation Area will also have the opportunity to pass over bridges atop the Welland canal on their way to the site. Many of these bridges offer distinctive craftsmanship and unique experiences for those who have never been to the area before. Additionally, on route to Mud Lake, visitors will be able to stop at the newly built Welland International Flatwater Center where many boating events take place such as rowing or dragon boating championships.

ECOLOGICAL

Mud Lake Conservation area encompasses 60 hectares of wetland and 54 hectares of field and woodland. The area is located beside the old Welland Canal. The area is also frequented by many types of rare and migratory birds as well as waterfowl. There have been over 60 species identified at this site. Mud Lake Conservation Area is dedicated to the preservation of vegetation and wildlife, making it the perfect habitat for many species of birds, amphibians and mamals. The lake is also known to be home to many types of fish, such as Largemouth bass and pan fish.